TROPICAL BEACHES
Walking the beaches of northern Australia with a rod in hand can be extremely rewarding, although anglers need to be aware of the potential threats posed by saltwater crocodiles and stinging sea wasp jellyfish: stay out of the water! The greatest thrill involved in this style of angling is what’s referred to as “sight fishing”: seeing your target first before casting a lure or fly to it. In Starlo’s book, fishing doesn’t get much better than this!
RODS
Light spinning (threadline) tackle based on 2 to 2.5 metre rods is great for casting lures at tropical fish cruising the beaches and flats, but using fly casting gear takes the challenge to a whole new level. An 8 or 9 weight fly outfit is perfect. Starlo chooses Shimano spin rods and G.Loomis fly rods.
REELS
Medium weight 2500 to 4000-size Shimano spinning reels fit the bill. Starlo and Jo used Shimano Stradic and Navi reels.
LINE
Fine, strong braided main lines work a treat, and Starlo prefers PowerPro in 10, 15 and 20 pound breaking strains for this task, with a 25 to 50 pound leader of Ocea fluorocarbon. Remember, lots of northern species have teeth!
TERMINAL TACKLE
range of Squidgies soft plastics and Squidgies jig heads and some metal slices such as Raiders cover the bases well for lure fishing, while smallish baitfish, shrimp and crab-pattern flies also work a treat. Quality polarised sunglasses are also essential for this caper. Steve and Jo wear Mako Eyewear exclusively and swear by their glasses.
